Cuyahoga Valley in May: Crowds, Weather & What to Pack
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May is one of the best months of the year to visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park: crowds run 82% of the July peak (301,541 average visits), days average 70°F with 14.5 hours of daylight. Computed from NPS and NOAA data.
Crowds in May
Cuyahoga Valley averages 301,541 recreation visits in May — 82% of what July, the peak month, draws. That crowd level sets the tone for parking, permits and lodging — book early and start days at dawn.
Weather & daylight
Days are pleasant (highs average 70°F), and nights stay mild (lows average 47°F). This is one of the wetter months (4.1″ of precipitation on average). Mid-month daylight runs 14.5 hours.
NOAA 1991–2020 monthly normals, station STOW 4 SE, OH US (9 mi from park coordinates, 1,060 ft elevation) — conditions vary inside the park, especially with elevation. Daylight computed for the 15th of May.
What to pack for Cuyahoga Valley in May
Computed from the month's weather normals above — not a generic list.
- Rain shell + pack cover — 4.1″ of precipitation is normal this month
- Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — every park, every month
Common questions
Is Cuyahoga Valley crowded in May?
Yes — May runs 82% of Cuyahoga Valley's peak, averaging 301,541 recreation visits (NPS, 2021–2025).
What is the weather like in Cuyahoga Valley in May?
Average highs of 70°F, lows of 47°F, 4.1″ of precipitation (NOAA 1991–2020 normals, STOW 4 SE, OH US station).
What should I pack for Cuyahoga Valley in May?
Rain shell + pack cover; Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — the full weather-computed list is on this page.
See also: the best national parks to visit in May · Last verified 2026-07-16